Landing tax makes waves on coast via Dailyastorian.com
Bill seeks to increase revenue for state fisheries, while cutting industry profits
By CASSANDRA PROFITA
The Daily Astorian
A bill in the state Legislature that would raise the cost of fishing has drawn barbs from commercial fishermen, seafood processors and Port of Astoria officials.
In addition to upping the price of sport and commercial fishing licenses and permits, House Bill 2223 would bump Oregon's fish landing tax from 1.09 percent to 3.15 percent - nearly a threefold increase.
The hike applies to shellfish, black and blue rockfish and all food fish except salmon, which is already taxed at 3.15 percent. The House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Communities is scheduled to hear the bill April 7 in Salem.
Great! more trouble for families and small fishing boats in Oregon. -- eds